Sunday, May 3, 2015

Myakka River State Park

Morning view of the marina outside my door

On to Myakka River State Park. Got a Wilderness Permit, and new State Parks Annual Pass. Then, drove to the concession area on Upper Myakka Lake. Took the kayak off the car and carted it to the dam area. The gate is new. Too many people ignoring the keep off the dam sign. Idiots.

Drove to the Park Road Bridge, biked back to my kayak at the dam.

Final yards to the River

On the water at 10:15

Shortly down River from the dam, there are two channels. Think I should have taken the narrower one. Would have been deeper. Had to take a part the paddle and push several times.

It got deeper.

Canopy Walkway tower

Park Road Bridge

Alligators of all sizes

Glossy ibis with plain old ibis. Some of which are new/young...not yet all white

Mama limpkin and chick

All this, before I was in the Wilderness

Which begins on the other side of the bridge

Into Lower Myakka Lake

Welcoming committee

Surprised to see a white pelican this far south, this late.

Rosette spoonbills and glossy ibis.

At Deep Hole, on the south end of the Lake. Opening photo taken here.

Headed back across the Lake

More white pelicans at the north end of Lower Myakka Lake

Back on the River

Leaving the Wilderness Preserve

But not the wildlife

Landed at 4:15

Deer from the Park Road as I drove to the concession area Had to get my bike

And, eat.

Had to go to my Facebook post to see what this was as I compose on June 4, 2015. Gator stew and a Florida microbrew. Two Henrys. After railroad magnates, Plant and Flagler.

On some of my weekend adventures, I will bring a bike and not ride it. At Myakka River State Park, I bring two, and ride both. Road bike for the car-bike shuttle.

Off road bike, for, well, you know.

Deer

Next stop, Canopy Walkway

This deer was outside the Park, on the side of State Road 72, as I headed back to my lodgings.

The on site restaurant is the Bearded Clam

I had the Bearded Clam Bowl. Needed more garlic bread to sop up the liquid.

About Me

I bought a used kayak in March, 2005 and began sending tales of trips to friends and family. That November, generous friends bought me a camera, Canon Powershot 400, so pictures were added to the tales. January 2007, I was able to add underwater photography, thanks to one of my brothers. I am now on my sixth camera. As of May, 2014, I have a Powershot 115 IS.
When I began kayaking in 2005, I would search the Internet for paddling information, trip reports, and practical advice. I hope this site adds to your knowledge and enjoyment.
My home in Winter Park, FL,north of Orlando,allows easy access to both coasts and all the spring fed rivers in between. Many Tales are day trips. No overnight stay required.
I welcome your comments and will try to respond to any questions you may have. If you are in, or plan to visit Key West, call my brother, Andy Cannon, at 305-748-0728. If it floats, flies, fishes, swims, scubas, snorkels or sails, Andy can arrange your tour, rental or self-guided adventure.
Happy Paddling!